04/24/2021
Did you know Siberian Huskies are prone to Zinc Responsive Dermatitis??
——
Zinc Responsive Dermatitis is a skin disorder that is caused by a zinc deficiency. Symptoms tend to appear first in young adult dogs and include thick scaly, crusty patches of skin with hair loss around the eyes, muzzle, and on any pressure point such as the elbows. Ears, hocks, reproductive organs, and pads are also affected.
Chronic digestive issues, picky eating, Immune system illnesses, Thyroid issues, organ failings, and Seizure activity all have a common factor, Zinc Deficiency as the catalyst for these problems.
It is likely a genetic problem and tends to occur in other northern breeds in addition to the Siberian Husky.
——
If you suspect this deficiency in your pup, by adding zinc to the diet any symptoms tend to disappear. Siberian Huskies have dietary requirements like wild canids, especially wolves. So, before you start adding supplements, you should review your dog’s diets to see if any changes should be made.
Look for feed that has high levels of zinc within the ingredient list. 20% wet dog food to 80% dry kibble is the recommended diet plan for a Siberian Husky. If you prefer to avoid adding meat, kelp and seaweed are high sources of zinc. Or you could add a bit of fish oil 2-3 times a week.
I feed my pack semi-cooked semi-raw meat, and my dry food recommendations for a zinc-deficient prone dog are:
-Taste of the Wild Pet Food (my dry kibble choice)
-Purina Pro Plan Focus Sensitive Formula
-Blue Buffalo Wilderness with red meat
Talk to a veterinarian or a certified animal naturopath. In either case, make sure you find someone who’s familiar with zinc deficiency in dogs, especially when it comes to supplementing as you can harm your dog if you supplement inappropriately.